An investigation begins into the ethics complaint filed against Wichita's mayor

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Wichita City Ethics Officer Kathy Sexton released a statement Wednesday regarding an ethics complaint filed against Mayor Lily Wu by the International Association of Firefighters – Local 135.

Sexton said the investigation into the complaint will begin immediately, but it could take several weeks before a decision is made.

Sexton said she received the complaint on October 23, 2024, filed by local IAFF president Ted Bush.

The complaint centered around a meeting Wu allegedly had with Wichita Fire Chief Tammy Snow in which, the union said, Wu told the chief the department would have to eliminate 42 positions.

“On the evening of October 29, I received a response from Ms. Wu, which I requested pursuant to Ordinance 52-549,” Sexton said. “This regulation provides the process for filing, processing and making decisions regarding ethics complaints.”

Wu called the complaint against her “false and frivolous.” She said the firefighters’ union was trying to damage her reputation and denied “all” allegations.

Wu said she supports public safety, including the Wichita Fire Department. She said she would allow the Ethics Board to “do their work confidentially and without public interference” and that she was fully cooperating.

Sexton said her role includes presenting the investigation findings and legal advice to the Ethics Board at a board meeting, after which the board will make decisions and vote in a public meeting.

The board’s report will be posted on the Ethics Board page of Wichita.gov bee Ethics Council | Wichita, KS.